Some of our challenges in life are caused by our own choices. Others are caused by the choices of others. And sometimes things just happen that are part of mortality. Regardless of the cause, adversity can help fulfill divine purposes as we turn to God.

This was true for the Saints in Missouri in 1833, and it’s true for us today. As you read what the Lord told the Saints in Doctrine and Covenants 98 and 101, ponder how His message applies to the various trials or difficulties you might have. Here are some questions and resources to help you.

President Russell M. Nelson taught: “Followers of Jesus Christ should set the example for all the world to follow. I plead with you to do all you can to end personal conflicts that are currently raging in your hearts and in your lives” (“The Power of Spiritual Momentum,” Liahona, May 2022, 97). SEE VIDEO BELOW

While not everything in Doctrine and Covenants 98:23–48 will apply to your personal interactions with others, what principles do you find that can guide you to end personal conflicts in your life? You could find additional truths in a song about peace or forgiveness, such as “Truth Reflects upon Our Senses” (Hymns, no. 273).

The revelations in sections 99 and 100 were given to people who had important Church responsibilities but were also concerned about their families. What do you find in these revelations that could have helped them? What message does the Lord have for you in these revelations?

See also “John Murdock’s Missions to Missouri” in “‘I Quit Other Business’: Early Missionaries” and “A Mission to Canada,” in Revelations in Context, 87–89, 202–7.

The parable in Doctrine and Covenants 101:43–62 explains why the Lord allowed the Saints to be driven out of Zion. As you read these verses, do you see any ways you are like the servants in the parable? How do you show God that you’re “willing to be guided in a right and proper way for [your] salvation”? (see verses 63–65) as follows:

D&C 101:63-65 “Again, verily I say unto you, I will show unto you wisdom in me concerning all the churches, inasmuch as they are willing to be guided in a right and proper way for their salvation—

That the work of the gathering together of my saints may continue, that I may build them up unto my name upon holy places; for the time of harvest is come, and my word must needs be fulfilled.

Therefore, I must gather together my people, according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory, when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father to reward every man according as his work shall be.”

IDEAS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN

Note: As you teach your children the importance of forgiveness, make sure they also understand that if someone hurts them, they should always tell a trusted adult.

Chapters 34 and 35 in Doctrine and Covenants Stories (128–34) could help you teach about how the Saints were treated in Missouri in 1833. You and your children could talk about how these Saints might have felt. Then you could read together Doctrine and Covenants 98:23, 39–40 to find out what the Lord wanted them to do. You and your children could talk about times you needed to forgive someone and how the Savior helped you.